With exactly one zillion breweries operating across America, distribution news is always a steady constant in the CBB mailbox. Every week, we get announcements on new alliances, upcoming state expansions and even reductions from breweries growing and shrinking their distribution footprints. Here is some of that wholesaler news. Enjoy! If you have distribution news, send it to [email protected].
San Diego’s Modern Times Beer returns to Hawaii + Maui Brewing’s impressive wildfire donation efforts
Recognize: Maui Brewing Co. is stepping up big time to help the victims of wildfires in Hawaii. The state’s biggest craft brewery has been accepting donations at its main brewery in Kihei and its two locations in Waikiki and Kailua on the island of Oahu. The company recently sent us an e-mail:
There is no better time to perpetuate our Maui roots than now. As fans and followers of Maui Brewing Company, here are some ways you can support our communities affected by the wildfire tragedies.
DONATION CENTERS:
Maui: MBC Kihei, 605 Lipoa Parkway, Daily 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Oahu: MBC Waikiki, 2300 Kalakaua Avenue (at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber), Daily from 11:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Oahu: MBC Kailua, 573 Kailua Road (at the Lau Hala Shops), Daily from 11:30am – 9:00pmAccepting the following items:
Baby items – bottles, formula, clothing, diapers/wipes
Clothing
Blankets/Pillows
Household items & supplies
Batteries/Lighters/TentsThose locations are accepting immediate needs — baby items, clothing, blankets and pillows, tents and batteries — as well as items that will be needed for rebuilding.
There’s more. Garrett Marrero, chief executive officer and founder at Maui Brewing, Kupu Spirits and Maui Hard Seltzer, recently wrote this quick resource article for the Brewers Association (where he is chair of the board of directors), announcing this cool project.
Inspired by Sierra Nevada’s Resilience project to support the victims of the tragic Camp Fire in 2018, we’ve created the Kokua project to support the ongoing needs of the people affected by these tragic fires on our home island of Maui.
We have begun working with our Maui brewing partners and throughout the state of Hawaii to bring this project to life. The Kokua project will be one beer, brewed by many, to support the people of Maui, with 100% of proceeds going to relief efforts.
Go buy some Maui Brewing beer and support these fine folks as well.
On a lower level of importance but still cool for Maui Brewing, Modern Times Beer announced its return to the Hawaiian market, partnering with Island Distributing. Maui bought Modern Times last year. Initial draft and can offerings for the Hawaiian market include Modern Times’ flagship Orderville Hazy IPA, Dungeon Map IPA, Fruitlands Gose and MT Pils, along with seasonal beers Trend Laser Hazy IPA and Big Yikes Hazy Double IPA.
“We’re excited and thrilled to be able to bring back Modern Times to the State of Hawaii,” said Dustin Gomes, Hawaii Territory Manager. “I know Hawaii craft beer lovers have been asking for a while when they’re going to be able to see some of their Modern Times favorites back in the islands. Wait no more: the time is now!”
Modern Times’ craft beer will be available at fine retailers and restaurants on Oahu this month, with additional placements on Maui to follow.
Rock on: Massachusetts’s’ Greater Good Imperial Brewing is selling its craft beer at the Worcester Palladium
Greater Good Imperial Brewing Co. markets itself as “America’s First All-Imperial Brewery,” and the beer maker recently announced a rockin’ new partnership that brings its award-winning beers to the historic Worcester music venue — The Palladium. Concert-goers will now be able to enjoy Greater Good beers from its draft trailer at outdoor shows all season. Mosh!
The partnership is unique for both organizations. Prior to partnering with Greater Good, The Palladium did not offer draft beer at any of their shows. The decision for the Palladium to choose Greater Good as their sole draft option touches on an overall trend that continues to bring craft beer and music closer together.
“Many of us here at Greater Good are avid concert-goers who love going to shows at The Palladium,” said J.T. Ethier, Brand Evangelist for Greater Good and Worcester resident. “When we learned about the opportunity to partner with this iconic venue, we didn’t hesitate to reach out to deepen our connection to Worcester. We’re beyond excited to add to the experience of seeing a concert at The Palladium this summer with our award-winning beers.”
he success of high ABV beers in the 19.2-oz can format for many breweries can be at least in part attributed to consumer demand for large format single-serve beverages at concerts and events. With their slot at the Palladium, Greater Good is leveraging the consumer desire for a bigger beverage that lasts longer between sets and extends beyond the can.
Pulp Daddy, Greater Good’s award-winning New England IPA, has been offered in various formats at stadiums and venues throughout Worcester. This made them the ideal candidate to be the outdoor craft beer vendor with The Palladium.
The Palladium, built in 1928, has deep roots in the American music scene, hosting bands and musicians of world renown such as Soundgarden, the Jerry Garcia Band, Rammstein, and Bob Dylan, while drawing a plethora of business to the downtown Worcester area. The outdoor concert space was first opened in 2019 to provide concert-goers with the unique experience of listening to their favorite bands outside in the heart of Worcester. Once known primarily as a bastion of Rock N’ Roll, The Palladium has grown into a recognized venue for hosting a wide range of musical acts that appeal to a broad range of tastes.
“Music and beer go hand in hand, so when we thought about how to amplify our outdoor concession offerings to concertgoers, we knew Greater Good would be the perfect fit,” stated Katie Morrison, Marketing and Sponsorship Director for Off The Rails Presents, sister company of The Palladium. “We were looking for a brewery partner that not only produces great beer suited for our lively venue but also supports our city. Greater Good was a no-brainer.”
Greater Good beers will be available in draft at all outdoor shows and available in cans for all indoor shows.
Greater Good Imperial was founded in 2016. Located in Worcester, MA, Greater Good brews a variety of high octane, yet smooth-drinking IPAs, porters, stouts, and ales. Brewed with dedication to crafting excellent beers that range from 8 to 12 percent ABV range and av
Michigan’s Big Lake Brewing launches in Indiana
Big Lake Brewing, an excellent Michigan craft brewery, recently announced a new market expansion into Indiana, signing distribution relationships with United Beverage of South Bend and Calumet Breweries. Big Lake beer is available to beer lovers across northern Indiana right now. Go get some!
Big Lake has become a significant player in the hazy IPA beer category with brands such as Blood Orange Haze and Cotton Candy Haze. It’s Michigan Amber and Swing Juice are perennial favorites for on-premise retailers. These four brands will represent Big Lake’s first beers to reach into new markets.
“Demand for our style of beers in other states is extremely high, and while we’ve focused our efforts on the Michigan market, we feel it is the right time to expand around the Great Lakes,” said Travis Prueter, cofounder of Big Lake Brewing. “Our home is Michigan, and this will always be our primary market, but we also want to make sure our beers are accessible to all beer-enthusiasts.”
In addition to increased distribution outside of Michigan, Big Lake has focused on a select number of core brands that are available year-round and seasonally, with special labels available exclusive through its popular Holland, Michigan, taproom. Big Lake Brewing’s 2023 Beer Release Calendar, which includes Blood Orange Haze, Cotton Candy Haze, Michigan Amber and Swing Juice as year-round offerings, are a reflection of beers that have been received popular acclaim by consumers and can maintain brand loyalty in the market.
“The past 10 years have shown us what beers people want, allowing us to produce consistently delicious beers while maintaining our culture of experimentation and innovation,” added Prueter.
Big Lake Brewing is a product of Great Lakes. Its beers are inspired by, made with, and enjoyed around Michigan’s greatest resource. The lake is what gave Big Lake Brewing its name, one that has now lasted 10 years. Located on 7th St. in downtown Holland, the taproom has 26 taps, always filled with a variety of handcrafted beers created by a passionate team of brewers. Big Lake also offers a full lunch and dinner menu with a Dutch spin. Learn more at biglakebrewing.com.
Twisted X Brewing and Andrews Distributing team up for north Texas distro
Andrews Distributing Co. is partnering with Twisted X Brewing Co. to distribute its exceptional craft brews to beer lovers throughout north Texas. At launch, Andrews will offer two Twisted X Brewing favorites. McConauHAZE, a hazy IPA, is a play on words for fellow Texan Matthew McConaughey that will be offered in 6-pack cans and draft. Pitmaster is an easy-drinking prime pilsner that will launch in six-pack cans. These brands will be available to the tens of thousands of retail, bar, restaurant and hospitality customers Andrews serves throughout north Texas.
“With their distinctly Texan brands, Twisted X Brewing makes a great addition to the Andrews portfolio,” said Director of Brand Management Craft Bryan Miller. “Andrews is looking forward to using our extensive brand building skills to expand the reach and success of Twisted X Brewing’s Hill Country crafted beers to North Texas.”
“The entire Twisted X family is excited about our new partnership with Andrews Distributing,” said Hunter T. Stewart, president and CEO of Twisted X Brewing Co. “As we launch McConauHAZE and Pitmaster into the North Texas market, we are committed to ensuring the highest quality beer for area beer lovers. We look forward to a long, prosperous partnership with the Andrews team.”
Twisted X Brewing Co., located in Dripping Springs in the Texas Hill Country, offers an array of high-quality, small-batch craft beers. Twisted X Brewing takes great pride in sourcing the finest ingredients for their brews, along with ensuring an attention to detail in every batch that they produce, including…
- McConauHAZE is a hazy IPA hopped with Citra and Galaxy that will make you feel Alright(x3).
- Pitmaster is an easy drinking, prime pilsner with a slightly citrusy aroma and crisp finish.
Made By The Water and Champion Brands join forces for Florida distribution
The Made By The Water family of breweries and Champion Brands of Florida recently announced a strategic partnership, set to expand the craft beer landscape in the Sunshine State. Made By The Water, LLC (parent company of Oyster City, Catawba, Palmetto, and Faubourg Brewing companies) is known for its unique yet approachable brews and has rapidly emerged as a craft beer powerhouse in the southeast. With a focus on quality, creativity, and community engagement, the company has consistently charmed beer enthusiasts with their diverse range of beers and commitment to excellence. Champion Brands of Florida, a renowned leader in beverage distribution, boasts an extensive network and a distinguished portfolio of premium beverages. As a veteran and family-owned company, Champion Brands has built its reputation on integrity, reliability, and outstanding customer service.
Both companies’ expressed their excitement about the partnership and the limitless possibilities it brings to the table.
“I am thrilled about this collaboration with Champion Brands,” said Alexi Sekmakas, CEO of Made By The Water. “Their deep understanding of the beverage industry and their commitment to delivering top-notch products align perfectly with our values. Together, we are poised to reach new heights and introduce our exceptional craft beers to even more beer enthusiasts across Florida.”
Alex Van Auken, Craft & Spirits Department Manager at Champion Brands, echoed the enthusiasm, stating, “Made By The Water’s dedication to crafting unique and outstanding beers resonates with our vision for delivering the best to our customers. This partnership will undoubtedly elevate the craft beer experience for consumers, and we couldn’t be more excited about the journey ahead.”
The partnership expands distribution channels for Made By The Water’s products, allowing more Florida consumers to enjoy their innovative creations. Beginning this fall, Champion Brands will leverage its extensive distribution network to make Made By The Water’s craft beers widely available in bars, restaurants, and retailers in the Northeast portion of the state. The main focus of the partnership initially will be the core Oyster City lineup as well as Catawba’s White Zombie white ale. Both groups expect to broaden the offering to include additional products in early 2024.
This collaboration comes at a time when craft beer demand is soaring, and consumers are increasingly seeking distinctive and memorable beer experiences. Made By The Water and Champion Brands are primed to meet this demand head-on, empowering beer lovers to savor the artistry and craftsmanship of exceptional brews.
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